Peterborough Public Health Urges Public To Protect From Mosquito Bites After Confirmation of Virus Found From a Horse

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is reminding residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites following a positive horse case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (EEEV) in the Peterborough region last week.

Stock photo.

This is the first equine case in our area and the sixth confirmed in Ontario this year according to PPH.

EEEV is transmitted to horses through mosquito bites, similar to West Nile Virus. Humans can also contract it from mosquitoes carrying the virus. It cannot acquire the virus from horses or other humans, only the bite of an infected mosquito. While human infection of EEEV is extremely rare, the symptoms can be severe and life-threatening.

Preventing Mosquito Bites:

• Wear long-sleeved, light-coloured clothing, or special clothing (e.g., clothing treated with permethrin) designed to protect you from bugs

• Use mesh screens and close routes of entry (e.g. windows, doors) to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home

• Stay indoors during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active

• Use insect repellent containing DEET or icardin

• Remove sources of stagnant/standing water from your property to prevent mosquito breeding

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Kawartha Home & Health Care Services Holding Free Blood Pressure Clinics Every Monday

Kawartha Home & Health Care Services is holding free blood pressure clinics to anyone every Monday.

The clinics are held at their offices located at 320 Water St. Unit #72 in Peterborough. They run from 10 a.m. to noon and again at 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

The free clinics will run every Monday and continue until further notice.

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Peterborough Requires More Hospital Beds and Staff To Meet Healthcare Demand Over Four Years Says CUPE

The Canadian Union of Public Employees’s Ontario Council of Hospital Unions has released a report addressing healthcare needs in Peterborough over the next four years in a presentation at the Peterborough Public Library on Wednesday morning.

Doug Allan, CUPE research officer (left) and Michael Hurley, OCHU/Cupe president (right) providing a presentation of their presentation; ‘The Hospital Crisis: No Capacity, No Plan, No End.’ CUPE represents 40,000 hospital workers across the province. Photo by David Tuan bui.

Their presentation, ‘The Hospital Crisis: No Capacity, No Plan, No End’ highlights the crisis in the Ontario hospital sector (including Peterborough) over the next four years. CUPE claims it will only worsen unless the provincial government makes significant investments to improve staffing levels and capacity as a result of their research according to Michael Hurley, OCHU/Cupe president.

“The hospital has identified the province with a critical lack of staffing,” he said. “It's a significant number of positions that need to be filled in the Peterborough Regional Health Centre.”

CUPE estimates that staffing levels and bed capacity must improve by 22 per cent, averaging at least over five per cent a year. This results in Peterborough needing 493 additional staff and 107 more beds.

They continue to criticize Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s current trajectory and plans, claiming those needs will grow by less than three per cent over the same duration.

“We are in a deep crisis with no signs of improvement as we continue to fail patients and workers alike,” said Hurley. “You've got services being reduced because of staff shortages, you've got patients being treated on stretchers because of lack of capacity, you've got people waiting for services for long periods or being turned away from services, you’ve got people being discharged prematurely. It’s unacceptable.”

CUPE continued to want the provincial government to repeal Bill 124 to properly pay healthcare workers their fair share and remove the cap on their wage increases.

“With inflation, because it drives up revenue at a comparable rate — that's inflation — the government has benefitted from very significant revenue increases and of course they've underspent their budgets on healthcare,” explained Doug Allan, CUPE research officer. “Hospital funding right now is about $25 billion across the province so five per cent of that per year would be $1.25 billion.”

Citing Stats Canada’s data, OCHU/CUPE says hospital staffing levels have only increased by 0.4 per cent annually since 2020 but patient needs necessitate a corresponding increase of 5.2 per cent annually.

CUPE continues to claim that healthcare staff have been burdened with heavy workloads, which combined with wage suppression, led to high turnover rates. The cite that vacancy rates in the first quarter of 2023 increasing by about 300 per cent since 2015. 

“The ongoing retention and recruitment challenges will only worsen if the government fails to address working conditions and compensation,” said Hurley. “Staff-to-patient ratios are extremely poor and getting worse. There are so many patients as demand for hospital care continues to grow, and the workloads continue to intensify. The conditions are so unsatisfactory that staff feel like they are failing patients and they just can't do it anymore.”

The report continues to mention that Ontario has 38 per cent less inpatient staffing in hospitals compared to the Canadian average. It says there would be 33,778 more full-time staff including inpatient workers and support staff if the province maintained pace with the others.

More full-time work, improvement in real wages and banning the use of agency staff were CUPe’s recommendations to help remedy the situation.

Since 2022, there have been more than 145 emergency room closures due to staffing shortages in 2023 according to CUPE.

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Canadian Mental Health Association Holding Open House For New HOPE Learning Centre On Aug. 31

The Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge’s (CMHA HKPR’s) Helping Others Through Peer Education (HOPE) Learning Centre is showcasing their new space with an open house in Peterborough Square for Aug. 31.

The open house runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. with everyone invited to attend at 360 George St. N., Unit 27.

The Centre launched last year and provides educational courses about mental health and well-being that promote recovery, hope, empowerment, possibility and connection according to a press release. There are courses for those who have lived experience with a mental health concern.

Courses are offered in-person and virtually. The new space is for in-person learning to Peterborough residents and the surrounding areas. Lindsay already has a HOPE Learning Centre for any Kawartha Lakes residents.

“The H.O.P.E. Learning Centre brings innovative mental health and wellness programming to the communities we serve and we are excited to have our own new space here in Peterborough,” said Christine Crough, manager of peer initiatives and employment supports. “The new space will allow us to offer more opportunities for connection and in-person learning.”

The centre is available for anyone 16 or older and living with a mental health concern. It can be beneficial for people who are looking to connect with others and could benefit from the support and guidance in making choices in their recovery journey as stated by CMHA.

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Campbellford Memorial Hospital To Celebrate 70th Anniversary With Parking Lot BBQ Lunch

Campbellford Memorial Hospital is celebrating its 70th-anniversary celebration with food, games, activities for children, special guests and more at their main parking lot on Aug. 26.

The hospital was established in 1953. They provide acute care services including a Special Care Unit, Endoscopy Surgical Suite, Diagnostic Imaging Department, Laboratory, numerous Out-Patient Clinics, 24/7 Emergency Department and numerous community programs including Mental Health, GAIN, and Supportive Housing. File photo.

The anniversary festivities run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the main parking lot at the hospital. All are invited to join the celebration.

Highlights of the event include:

• BBQ lunch, cake, cotton candy and more.

• Exciting games and activities for children.

• Speeches reflecting on the hospital's history and the contributions of staff, volunteers and community members.

• Sneak peek at some of future redevelopment plans.

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Peterborough Public Health Extends Drug Poisoning Alert From Last Tuesday

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has extended its drug poisoning alert that was issued last Tuesday following an increase in suspected drug poisonings, reported on Tuesday.

File Photo.

Over the long weekend, PPH detected 17 suspected drug poisonings in Peterborough and the County. The poisonings were responded to by 911 first responders, emergency department staff and service providers in the community. PPH presumes this to be the result of a pink substance from last week. 

These reports have prompted PPH to issue a public warning to help prevent further harm to the community according to a press release. PPH is reminding the public that street drugs may be cut or mixed with toxic substances and even a small amount can be fatal. 

Drug poisoning can look different for every person depending on the drugs involved. PPH urges everyone that a drug poisoning is a medical emergency and to always call 9-1-1.  

If drugs are being used:"

• Carry multiple naloxone kits and keep them visible. Free naloxone kits are available locally.  https://www.ontario.ca/page/where-get-free-naloxone-kit

• NEVER use it alone. Ask someone to check on you or call the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-6677. Visit the Consumption Treatment Services Site at 220 Simcoe St. in Peterborough. Open daily between 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. 

• Avoid mixing drugs. 

• Start low and go slow when using drugs, especially when buying from different or new suppliers.   

• NEVER share supplies. 

• Call 9-1-1 immediately if someone begins to show signs of an overdose. 

Know the Signs of an Overdose/Drug Poisoning. Photo courtesy of PPH.

Residents can anonymously report drug poisonings and other bad drug reactions using the Drug Reporting Tool. Any information shared through the tool supports PPH and community partners in responding to and preventing drug poisonings in the Peterborough area.

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Peterborough Public Health Gives Reminded That Public Outdoor Places Are Smoke-Free

Peterborough Public Health (PPH) is reminding the city that Tobacco Enforcement Officers (TEO) ensure compliance with the Smoke-Free Ontario Act and that public outdoor spaces are smoke, vape and cannabis-free, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

TEOs regularly patrol parks, playgrounds, beaches and festivals and violating the law could lead to a $305 fine.

“The SFOA isn’t a new law – it has protected people in outdoor public spaces since 2015 and indoors since 2006,” said Katrina Ryall, PPH TEO. “Most people understand the importance of this legislation and are happy to smoke or vape in designated areas.”

Over the first three weeks of the summer, TEOs visited every public sports field, playground, and beach and attended several special events in the City and County of Peterborough. Compliance has generally been good but Ryall says it can be better.

“Our efforts to educate the public are generally well-received but sometimes we need to remind people that lighting up or vaping around children and families is not permitted in Ontario,” she said. “As patrols continue throughout the summer, people found smoking or vaping in a restricted public area can expect to receive a fine.”

The following are places that were observed and met with warnings issued:

• Quarry Bay Beach - 1 tobacco warning

• Chandos Beach - 1 vape warning

• Ennismore Waterfront Park -1 vape warning

• Beavermead Park and Beach -13 tobacco warnings/1 vape warning

• Rogers Cove - 3 tobacco warnings

• Bowers Park - 1 tobacco warning

• Maple Leaf Park - 2 tobacco warnings

• Fairbairn & Poplar Park - 1 tobacco warning

• Quarry Bay Beach -1 tobacco warning

• Chandos Beach -1 tobacco warning

• Ennismore Waterfront Park - 2 tobacco warnings

• Sandy Beach - 2 tobacco warning

• Peterborough Musicfest - 4 tobacco warnings/1 vape warnings/1 cannabis warning

“Nicotine greatly impacts children and youth’s developing brains,” said Dr. Piggott, PPH Medical Officer of Health. “Nicotine affects learning, memory, and concentration which is why we need to make sure youth don’t have access to these products. Evidence also shows that youth who vape are more likely to begin smoking cigarettes.”

Since January, TEOs have inspected 136 tobacco and vapour product retailers, resulting in 7 charges and 17 warnings for youth gaining access to said products according to the PPH.

They continue to add that there are no safe levels of exposure to second-hand smoke and children and youth are influenced by the behaviour of adults around them.

“Thanks to the Smoke-Free Ontario Act all citizens are able to enjoy the fresh air in our parks, beaches and at sports fields,” said Councilor Lesley Parnell. “It is very much appreciated by so many people when everyone respects our beautiful shared green spaces.”

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Rogers Cove and Beavermead Beaches To Remain Closed After Peterborough Public Health Confirms Presence of Blue-Green Algae

Rogers Cove and Beavermead beaches are remaining closed after Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae in the waters as reported on Monday afternoon.

File photo.

The closure is to protect the health and safety of the public and pets according to PPH.

The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) sampled the beach at Rogers Cove after the first reports of suspected blue-green algae at both Rogers Cove and Beavermead beaches on July 14. Last Friday, the MECP confirmed its presence at Rogers Cove.

“We’ve received confirmation that the algae observed at local beaches on July 14 is a harmful blue-green algae bloom,” said Julie Ingram, PPH manager of environmental health. “Elevated levels of toxins associated with blue-green algae have been detected and the beaches will remain temporarily closed.”

The MECP confirmed this sample had a total microcystin toxin amount of 169 µg/L, exceeding Health Canada’s recreational water limit of 10 µg/L on Monday. Additional samples are being collected from both beaches Monday with results anticipated by the end of this week as stated by the PPH.

The algae pose no immediate risk to Peterborough or Lakefield’s municipal drinking water supplies according to the PPH. Exposure to toxins such as drinking, swimming and bathing can cause illness and discomfort. Common symptoms include itchy, irritated eyes and skin, rash, headache, fever, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Pets and farm animals that consume contaminated water may experience sickness or death. The risk to humans is primarily from drinking water that has been contaminated with toxins from a dense harmful algae bloom. Long-term consumption containing high levels of cyanobacterial toxins may cause neurological or liver problems.  

Residents downstream of Little Lake are encouraged by the PPH to monitor water for blue-green algae. Dense blooms can make the water look like a bluish-green pea soup or a shiny paint slick. Fresh blooms often smell like fresh-cut grass while older blooms can have a strong septic- or garbage-like odour. To report suspected blue-green algae bloom, contact the MECP Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060.  

If algae blooms are visible:  

• Do not use the water for drinking, food preparation, bathing, showering or swimming use. 

• Do not allow children, pets, or livestock to swim in or drink the water. 

• If skin contact does occur, wash with soap and water or rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove the algae. 

• Do not boil the water. Boiling will not remove the toxins and may release more of the toxin into the water. 

• Residents should avoid cooking with the water because food may absorb toxins from the water during cooking.

• Fishing is generally considered safe and there is a low risk to human health from eating fish caught during a peak blue-green algal bloom condition. 

• Be aware that home treatment systems for water may not remove toxins and may become clogged. 

• Do not treat the water with a disinfectant such as chlorine bleach. This action may break open algal cells and release toxins into the water.

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Peterborough Public Health Warns of Potential Blue-Green Algae at Beavermead and Rogers Cove Public Beaches

Peterborough Public Health is advising residents that two beaches in the City of Peterborough, Beavermead Park Beach (2011 Ashburnham Dr.) and Rogers Cove Beach, (131 Maria St.) will be closed until further notice due to the observation of possible harmful blue-green algae blooms.

file photo.

Blue-green algae are a type of bacteria, called cyanobacteria, that are known for rapidly reproducing and collecting to form large, highly visible blooms throughout the water column, on the surface of water as a scum, or on the lake bottom as a mat. Some species of cyanobacteria can also release poisons, called cyanobacterial toxins, when the cells that make up the bloom rupture or die.

While the blooms have not yet been confirmed as harmful, Peterborough Public Health has temporarily closed the beaches for swimming as a precaution while awaiting further testing.

“On Friday, our staff observed the suspect harmful algal blooms while preparing to collect routine beach water samples,” said Julie Ingram, manager of environmental health for Peterborough Public Health. “We immediately notified the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Spills Action Centre and have received confirmation that the MECP will sample the blooms today. In addition, we have notified the City of Peterborough who are supporting the beach closures,” said Ingram.

Many forms of blue-green algae are harmless, but some types produce toxins which can be hazardous for both people and animals. Exposure to toxins through activities like drinking, swimming and bathing can cause various symptoms, though some individuals may have no reaction.

Pets should not be allowed to enter water with suspect or confirmed harmful algae blooms as they may consume large amounts of contaminated water, resulting in sickness or death. The risk to humans is primarily from drinking water that has been contaminated with toxins from a dense harmful algae bloom. Long-term consumption of water containing high levels of cyanobacterial toxins may cause neurological or liver problems.

Currently, there is no known risk to the City of Peterborough’s municipal drinking water supply.

If algae blooms are visible:

• Do not use the water for drinking, food preparation, bathing, showering, or swimming use.

• Do not allow children, pets, or livestock to swim in the water or drink the water.

• If skin contact does occur, wash with soap and water or rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove the algae.

• Do not boil the water. Boiling will not remove the toxins and may release more of the toxin into the water.

• Residents should avoid cooking with the water because food may absorb toxins from the water during cooking.

• Home treatment systems for water may not remove toxins and may become clogged, thereby failing to remove
  the risk.

• Do not treat the water with a disinfectant such as chlorine bleach. This action may break open algal cells and
  release toxins into the water.

To report a suspect blue-green algae bloom, residents are advised to contact MECP Spills Action Centre at 1-800-268-6060.

For more information on blue-green algae, and precautions to be taken before swimming in or consuming water where there has been an algae bloom, visit Peterborough Public Health’s Blue-Green Algae website.

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Peterborough Public Health Reports High Risk Level Air Quality Due to Ongoing Forest Fires

On Monday, Peterborough Public Health (PPH) has advised residents to take precaution as outdoor air quality remains at the high risk level due to ongoing forest fires.

photo courtesy of peterborough public health, facebook.

Smoke from forest fires throughout the province and from Quebec is present in the air in the region. Forest fire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations. PPH is advising everyone to take action to reduce their exposure to smoke.

People with lung disease (such as asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by forest fire smoke.

Those who are at higher risk of health complications due to air pollution are advised to:

• Avoid going outdoors altogether, especially for prolonged periods

• Avoid strenuous activities outdoors, which carry a significant risk of making underlying medical conditions worse

• Improve indoor air quality by cleaning or changing furnace air filters, using a portable air filter system, or creating your own Corsi Rosenthal box

• Wear a respiratory mask (N95, KN95) at all times when outdoors

Other community members are advised to:

• Reduce time spent outdoors

• Improve indoor air quality by cleaning or changing furnace air filters, using a portable air filter system, or creating your own Corsi Rosenthal box

• Consider wearing a respiratory mask (N95, KN95) when outdoors, particularly for prolonged periods

Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values for the Peterborough region.

Learn more about indoor air quality and filter systems, visit the website.

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